I'm so excited to introduce you to the first Blueprints For Sewing pattern: Cabin.

Cabin is a kimono sleeve top or shift dress that can be finished with bias binding or facing. It features a back yoke with a large box pleat. The shirt hits just above the hip and the shift - perfect for pairing with tights, leggings, or even jeans - hits just below the knee. Did I mention that the shift dress has really cool pockets? And the pocket pattern can be used with other patterns if you so desire!

When I started dreaming up designs for Blueprints, I made a big list of architectural styles that inspired me. I also though about shapes that I have loved wearing over the years and began to make connections. Once I started to pair up ideas, they evolved simultaneously. Cabin was the first to move into full scale development.

Early sketches of the Cabin shirt.

A drawing I made (on an old library catalog card-my favorite note taking supply) of a cabin when conceptualizing this pattern.

For my first pattern, I wanted to create something that offered up a little bit of everything I hope makes Blueprints patterns special.

The Fit

Cabin is intended to be basic. That way, it can allow for the unique point of view of the sewist to shine, through fabric choice, embellishments, or even alterations and pattern hacks! There's many ways to make this pattern yours and I hope its versatility helps it become a staple in your wardrobe. It sure has in mine!

The cut is a variation on a shape I have been making for myself for years. I've always loved swingy tops and dresses, specifically those with a bit of dart shaping and a lot of flattering fullness that can be worn loose and easy, something a Danish art gallery director or Japanese boutique owner might wear. It can also be belted and cardigan'd for a more uptown look...the shape is timeless and comfortable.

The Pattern

I spent a great deal of time not only on the pattern itself, but also the instructions and packaging. I wanted to create a pattern 'folder', rather than an envelope, that made packing up and storing your pattern a bit easier. I've always disliked cramming pattern tissue back into an envelope.

A pattern folder prototype. The real thing will be pretty close, but have a few changes!

I believe in investing in good things and hanging onto them. I've designed this pattern to be an item you use frequently and holds up over time.

Since the pattern cover is a folder, rather than an envelope, there's room inside for more fun information. I've included a short piece of writing about cabins in history, as well as a space to think about design and make notes about fabric and pattern changes.

I'm very excited about the cover, illustrated by Rebecca Wallach. As an artist myself, I'm looking forward to featuring the work of other artists on all future Blueprints covers (and other material as well, possibly).

Keep an eye out for a forthcoming interview with Rebecca during the week! I also plan to feature some of the fine folks who tested the pattern's lovely makes. You can see them on the blog or follow us on instagram and pinterest!

Our printers have been given the go ahead and patterns will be ready by the end of the month. You can pre-order your pattern here or keep a look out at your local sewing shop! See our list of stockists to see who carries this pattern.

Instagram

Today I mailed off this basketball net (called "Storm Clouds", complete with tiny stuffed rainclouds) to be in a @newcraft_artistsinaction show in NY. Made from repurposed scraps from my studio. #ncaanetworks

I showed up at @jpknitandstitch and @eyetradehandmade had on this beautiful, all repurposed tshirts #blueprintsgeodesic tee. Also, her thimble necklace is amazing!

The events this weekend in VA were heavy (visual pun intended). The state of my country and how fractured it has become (and in many ways has always been) weighs on me every day. We come from a complicated history, a variegated landscape of people and beliefs and tremendous fear and the way forward is unclear.
I don't often use Instagram as a soapbox, but I feel it's my responsibility to speak up on public platforms like this as the stakes continue to get higher.
So, here's a break in my usual posts to simply share my intention to be active, supportive and aware. We have to continue to stand up against racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, ableism, xenophobia, and encourage others to do the same.

Knitting at the pond!

Today's garden harvest 👍

Last day of capsule wardrobe class and super proud of my students! ✨❤️✂️(Check out their projects in my stories!) Here's my last outfit: a Cabin and A-Frame combo! #blueprintsaframe #blueprintscabin #capsulewardrobe